XFINITY Series Drivers to Watch

Keep an Eye on These Xfinity Series Drivers

Last year’s NASCAR Xfinity Series season was historically unpredictable, with eight drivers winning at least two races. Which contender will take charge this year?

BY AARON BURNS

There’s something for everyone in the

NASCAR Xfinity Series.

Want to see veterans going for a careerdefining championship? Look no further than Justin Allgaier, Michael Annett and A.J. Allmendinger.

Interested in the title hopefuls employed by legendary car owners? Joe Gibbs has Harrison Burton and Daniel Hemric in the fold. Dale Earnhardt Jr.’s operation features Noah Gragson and Roger Penske counters with Austin Cindric, the series’ reigning champ.

Cindric is the early favorite to repeat as champion, with his team intact and plenty of motivation to prove last season was no fluke. He’ll be challenged early and often, however, by a pack of drivers itching for supremacy and a shot at the NASCAR Cup Series in 2022.

There’s a lot to play for in the Xfinity Series’ 40th season, with 33 races and a championship trophy awaiting the driver and team who rises above the rest when it matters most.

Here’s a look at a half-dozen drivers who could lay claim to the series title once the season ends in November:

A.J. Allmendinger

“The Dinger” enjoyed a scintillating 2020 season, which featured two wins in just 11 starts. This year, Allmendinger will chase his first NASCAR Xfinity Series title with Kaulig Racing, one of the series’ most successful new teams. Look for Allmendinger to be at the front on every type of track. Justin Allgaier

Elliott Sadler must’ve passed down the title of “Most Successful Xfinity Series Driver without a Championship” to Allgaier, who’s finished fifth or better in points seven times. Last year, he came closer than ever – a runner-up finish on the strength of three wins and 19 top-10 finishes. Is this the year? Harrison Burton

The Xfinity Series’ reigning rookie of the year drives for one of the sport’s best teams – Joe Gibbs Racing – so he has the speed that’s necessary to win a championship. Burton won four races a year ago. If he can stay up front and avoid trouble in the playoffs, watch out. Daniel Hemric

One of NASCAR’s most well-liked drivers by fans, media and his peers, Hemric has bounced around the last few seasons. He’s been competitive in Xfinity Series races, but make no mistake: This is Hemric’s prove-it year. He’ll pilot Joe Gibbs Racing’s No. 18 Toyota, arguably the series’ most soughtafter ride.

Austin Cindric

Six wins, 19 topfive finishes, 26 top-10 results and a championship did everything for Cindric except land him a fulltime NASCAR Cup Series ride. Returning to Team Penske’s Xfinity Series program, Cindric will look to replicate Tyler Reddick’s feat of backto-back championships in 2018 and 2019. He’s once again the early title favorite. Riley Herbst

Herbst takes over the StewartHaas Racing ride previously held by Chase Briscoe, the series’ winningest driver last year. Briscoe parlayed nine wins into a NASCAR Cup Series ride. Don’t expect Herbst to win nine races, but multiple visits to victory lane are likely. He’s got the car to do it.